Bernard denied both aspects to the AP, and an spokesman for Indianapolis Motor Speedway told Autoweek that Bernard hasn't been fired and his employment status hasn't changed.

It was the Indianapolis Business Journal that reported Bernard's firing. The publication used unnamed sources.

All of this comes on the heels of last Friday's confirmation that Bernard's predecessor, Tony George, resigned from the board of directors of IndyCar's parent company as he tries to make a pitch to buy IndyCar.

If Bernard is gone, it's likely because of the financial bottom line from his three years on the job. The loss of the China race was costly, and the television ratings reached an all-time low this year.

If Bernard is gone, it's likely that IMS CEO Jeff Belskus will assume the duties until a replacement can be secured. But, of course, that's putting the cart before the horse at least for now.